Republicans are using a clever tactic to undermine confidence in Hillary Clinton. False accusations feed a media frenzy and all too many people think what they hear and read must be at least partly true. This is how it works:
1. Republicans make false accusations
For example: In April, Clinton was accused of “waging war on Christianity” because of her remarks on women’s reproductive health care. This scary story had no real basis as Clinton meant nothing of the kind, but simply more tolerance by some Christians.
2. The press repeats them
In this case, the idea was widely spread in the media, fueled by the likes of Bobby Jindal who claimed Clinton said pro-lifers had to change their religious beliefs. Right-wing websites reported on Clinton’s so-called war. (The conservative media ensures that the most damning stories stay alive.)
3. People think “it just might be true”
And with even the non-partisan press taking a so-called “balanced approach” of “anything’s possible,” even liberals end up thinking, “Maybe she is overstepping.” And the story was undoubtedly seen as true by many.
5. People trust her less and the polls pick this up
Many Americans have started to think Clinton is not honest and trustworthy. This then shows up in the polls – and this makes another negative story.
6. The Press, GOP and some Democrats say “Look, people don’t trust her.”
The worst part is that some Democrats and progressives buy into this circular argument that starts with false accusations. And they repeat the GOP line that Hillary can’t be trusted.
So the polls get worse and the vicious cycle continues….
All sorts of allegations, no matter how outrageous, are pounced upon by the media and by the time they are investigated and debunked, it’s too late. The story has spread and has become “true” to those wanting to believe it.